Clothing Issues and Tips

Early Spring and Fall Rides

Riding in the "bench" seasons (to steal a term from the cuise lines) and dealing with the temperatures and precipitation issues provides it's own set of demands in the clothing arena. Many times having the correct clothing will save the day by keeping you comfortable, safe (by avoiding hypothermia) and allow you to finish your planned route. Ideally these will be items that you can stuff in a jersey pocket when not needed.

The theory is that if you keep your core (head/chest) warm, your xtremities (toes/fingers) will stay warm as well. So if you have to choose, take that fleece vest and skull cap before you pack the leg warmers.

Be ready for unexpected downpours. It may be sunny when you leave the house, but storms brew quickly. When you get doused while wearing shorts and a short-sleeve jersey on a cool day, it can get mighty cold. But who wants to lug full rain gear when it might not rain at all? Here's a minimal, easy-to-carry kit for days when the weather can't make up its mind.

Lightweight rain shell It won't have all the bells and whistles of a serious rain jacket, but it will roll up compactly. It'll block rain and hold in body heat, which is the key to preventing not just the chills but dangerous hypothermia. These jackets are affordable at about $20-$30. It's smart to choose a bright color for better visibility. Reflective material makes you even safer.

Helmet liner If you can keep your head warm, the rest of your body will follow. A light, synthetic skull cap covers your ears and holds precious heat next to your noggin. For those of us a little thin on hair, this is an especially big help.

Arm and knee warmers Easy to carry and stuff into that jersey pocket are arm warmers which can convert a short-sleeve jersey to long sleeves (and they can be worn under a rain shell to act as a jacket liner). If a bit too warm (or you just don't want to stop at the moment, they can be slipped down around the wrists to reduce overheating and then pulled back up on wind chilled descents. Knee warmers or full-length leg warmers prevent even more heat loss. and can be added for those early morning rides late/early in the season. Here are some "warmer" tips.

Wear leg warmers or knee warmers under your cycling short's legs. Either put on the warmers first, and then the spandex, OR roll back the shorts and pull the warmers to mid-thigh. Then roll the shorts back down. The overlap will help hold the warmers in place.

Arm warmers the same. Jersey sleeves overlap.

If you are wearing tights, wear regular cycling shorts underneath. Although tights may have a a liner, this will eliminate the need to wash the tights after every ride.

Vest A lightweight poly vest with windstop fleece technology, or with a nylon front adds warmth to your core and can protect during a light drizzle. Add a rain shell and arm warmers and you have a lined jacket.

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